Guidance Contact Info

Contact Information:
Gardiner Area High School
Guidance Department
40 West Hill Road
Gardiner, ME 04345
Phone (207) 582-3150
Fax (207) 582-0434

Guidance Department Staff:

Department Chair:
Jean Powers
(jpowers@msad11.org)

Counselors:
Dan Connolly (dconnolly@msad11.org)
Phyllis Worthley(pworthley@msad11.org)

Registrar:
Linda McNickles (lmcnickles@msad11.org)

Secretary:
Bridget Condon (bcondon@msad11.org)

Guidance Grapevine

The Wendy High School Heisman 2008 Application is now available: www.wendyheisman.com
Seniors only who have atleast a "B" average and participate in at least oneof the 32 offically sanctioned sports. Completed application due by Oct. 1, 2008

MeritAid.com Makes college more rewarding than ever. www.meritaid.com/counselor

Community Service Option: The Maine State Museum hosts a really big event called Bug-Maine-ia. Tues. Sept 16 set-up 2:30-5 contact kris.weeks-oliveri@maine.gov for more information.

Sunday Spetember 23 from 2-4:30 pm College Fair. Driving Directions can be found on www.usm.maine.edu/generalinfo.tm. For an up to date listing of participating institutions see: www.meacc.org/cf_fall.cfm. Bring peel and stick labels with your name, address, e-mail and telephone # to put on inquiry cards for colleges to contact you.

To our students and families: As school counselors, our most effective work with you is accomplished through collaboration. It is in that spirit that this website has been prepared for your use. It will provide you with valuable resources. Some pages are strictly informational; others will acquaint you with things to look for, to question, and to consider when helping your student make future plans. For answers to individual questions, you may want to call and speak with your student’s counselor at Gardiner Area High School. (207) 582-3150

This newsletter provides students and parents with information on everything from program offerings, diverse learning opportunities to important deadlines and general Guidance information.
College Night is in October
College night is an informational meeting for all parents interested in learning more about the college process. Speakers from area colleges and the guidance office attend and give insight on how the college process works. Several handouts are available and a question and answer session will be available. Students and parents are encouraged to attend.

PSATs - October
With the new state format juniors interested in taking the PSATs will take them on the same day as all sophomores at the high school. Cost for the test will be announced 3 weeks before the test but is generally around the $14 range. It is important for Juniors to take this test not only as a good 2nd practice for the SAT but they may want to be considered for National Merit Scholarship. PSAT scores for sophomore year are not considered for scholarship.

SATs - May/June
All juniors are mandated by the state to take the SAT I Reasoning Test in May. This test will be administered at the high school. More specific information will be provided during the winter months. Juniors may want to retest in June.

Student Handbook

GAHS 07-08 Student Handbook

Statement of Purpose:
The mission of School Administrative District #11 is to prepare students to become self-directed in their education and personal growth, to act as responsible members of the community, and to recognize the implications of living in a global economy. Our vision is to create a safe and healthy learning environment that will focus on academic success and community awareness. To meet the social, economic, and technical demands of the twenty-first century, all students need to be aware of the global and environmental effects created by the decisions they make and to realize their educational experience transcends the classroom to family, friends, and co-workers.

A. Self-Directed Learner
The GAHS graduate will be able to:
A1. Develop career, educational and life plans that reflect personal goals and awareness of the dynamic economy, labor market, and the environment.
A1.1 Develop a broad based educational/career plan
A1.2 Exhibit the interpersonal skills necessary for success in the modern workplace

A2. Independently seek out and use information and other sources.
A2.1 Use appropriate resources to find, organize, and communicate information

A3 Demonstrate the characteristics and work habits needed to succeed in a collaborative and quality-conscious
Workplace.
A3.1 Set priorities and achievable goals
A3.2 Evaluate and manage own progress toward goals
A3.3 Communicate ideas and information coherently in a variety of situations

B. Clear and Effective Communicator
The GAHS graduate will be able to:
B1. Practice communication in a variety of modes of expression.
B1.1 Read Effectively
B1.2 Write Effectively
B1.3 Speak Effectively
B1.4 Listen Effectively
B1.5 Use technology effectively

B2. Experience at least one language other than English.

B3. Be able receive and interpret information from a variety of media.
B3.1 Evaluate and employ visual media
B3.2 Evaluate and employ auditory media
B3.3 Evaluate and employ print media
B3.4 Evaluate and employ electronic media

C. Problem Solver
The GAHS graduate will be able to:
C1. Gather and use information to solve practical problems drawing from skills and methodologies of appropriate disciplines.
C1.1 Identify and understand what the problem is
C1.2 Determine the formula/process needed to solve problem
C1.3 Correctly use formula/process to solve problem
C1.4 Critique the effectiveness of solution(s) and revise if appropriate

D. Responsible Member of the Community
The GAHS graduate will be able to:
D1. Participate to affect the community.
D1.1 Complete sixty hours of community service.

D2. Demonstrate participation skills.
D2.1 Contribute to small group work
D2.2 Deliver presentations
D2.3 Participate in discussions
D2.4 Ask questions

D3. Understand the means of achieving personal and community health and well-being.

M.S.A.D. #11
Code of Conduct
As a member of the M.S.A.D. #11 community, I have
A Right: & A Responsibility:

To be safe To act safely
To be respected To treat others with kindness
To be heard To listen with consideration
To learn To be accepting of individual differences

Knowing others have the same rights as I do.

Academic Honor Code
Honor Code Expectations:

? Each student is honest in all of his or her academic endeavors.
? Each student is expected to turn in his/her own original work.
? Each student is responsible for his/her own personal actions.
? Each student is expected to act and behave in an ethical manner and to address inappropriate actions.
? Each student is expected to speak the truth, support one another, and treat all people with kindness.

Academic Dishonesty:
The intent to use another person’s work, answers, or research as their own.
Examples of cheating are:
? Plagiarism: Putting a source’s text into one’s own words (paraphrasing) and not citing the source.
? Quoting a source (copying information word for word) and failing to give the proper citation.
? Copying someone’s homework or answers.
? Using crib notes or some other form of cheat sheet.
? Submitting your same work more than once for credit without the instructor’s permission.
? Using electronic devices with stored exam information while taking a test.
? Making up data on a lab assignment or research paper.
? Making up a source to use as a citation in a paper.
? Giving test information/answers to students in other sections of the same class.

Consequences:
? Students will receive disciplinary consequences (please see pages 14-15). During the time allotted for disciplinary consequences the student will be required to complete the assignment or an alternate assignment as deemed appropriate by the teacher and administrator.
? Parents of the student will be notified by the teacher.
? The student will be referred to the National Honor Society Advisory Board (if applicable).
? The student will be subject to removal from any applicable privileges (i.e. Honor Roll, Open Campus).

Academic Requirements
In order for a student to be considered a full time student at Gardiner Area High School he/she must be taking the equivalent of at least five credits per semester. Students must accumulate a total of twenty-two (22) Carnegie units to graduate (including the following highlighted required courses).

? 4 credits of English (Grade 9, Grade 10, American Studies)
? 3 credits of Social Studies (World History, U.S. History, American Studies)
? 3 credits of mathematics (Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II)
? 3 credits of science (Investigating Science, Biology, ½ credit in Chemistry & ½ credit in Physics)
? 1 credit of fine arts
? 1/2 credit of health
? 1 credit of Wellness
? 1 credit of Career Essentials
? 60 hours of Community Service (15 hours per year in attendance at GAHS)

Activities and Organizations
Students are encouraged to participate in many activities and organizations at Gardiner Area High School. Those students who are active in activities and organizations find school more rewarding as well as increasing school spirit. Any student participating in sports or clubs must be carrying five courses and be a student in good standing.

Sports Teams Clubs Organizations
Girls & Boys Soccer (Fall) Art Club Class Council
Field hockey (Fall) Drama Club Student Council
Football (Fall) French Club Civil Rights Team
Golf (Fall) Latin Club Quill (Yearbook)
Cross Country Running (Fall-Co-Ed) Spanish Club School Newspaper
Cheering (Fall/Winter – Co-Ed) Culture Club Theatre
Wrestling (Winter) Math Team National Honor Society
Girls and Boys Basketball (Winter) Health Team
Girls and Boys Swimming (Winter)
Ice Hockey (Winter)
Boys & Girls Track (Winter/Spring)
Boys and Girls Lacrosse (Spring)
Baseball & Softball (Spring)
Boys and Girls Tennis (Spring)

Add / Drop
The Add / Drop period for all classes will start at the beginning of the summer and end on September 7, 2007.
After the Add / Drop period, schedule changes will only be made to adjust a student’s course level(s) and must be initiated by the student. A student/parent meeting with the classroom teacher of the course(s) and/or the content area’s Department Chair will be required in order to process a change. Upon approval of the teacher/department chair, the student and parent are to meet with the appropriate guidance councilor who will make the necessary changes and issue the student a new schedule. Courses approved to be dropped through this process which occur after the Add / Drop period will be designated with a withdrawal-grade (for example W-66) and will require a final approval from the Principal. Students are to maintain their original course schedules until changes are completed by the guidance department.

Adult Education & Extended Day Programs
Adult Education, including the Extended Day program is an option for Gardiner Area High School students upon approval from the content area department chair, the student’s guidance councilor, a high school administrator, and the Adult Education Director. MSAD #11’s Adult Education Office will allow high school students, age 17 or above.

Advanced Placement Courses
Advanced Placement courses are designed to challenge students to problem solve, to think critically, and to prepare them for the Advanced Placement Exam. These courses are very rigorous and require students to work independently, to demonstrate initiative, require additional meeting times, and course work over the summer and during vacations. A student who successfully passes the AP Exam can, pending the institution they apply to, earn college credit. Gardiner Area High School currently offers the following Advanced Placement courses:
AP Calculus (AB) AP Biology AP English (Language & Composition)
AP US History AP Chemistry AP English (Literature & Composition)

Advisor/Advisee Program
The Advisor/Advisee Program is a comprehensive support program for students, parents, and staff. The goal is to personalize student and staff relationships in order to enhance each student’s education through individualized communication and support. We believe each student can succeed when he/she feels accepted, encouraged, and valued as a member of the school community. The success of this program requires a shared effort and commitment from students, staff, and parents/guardians. All students will be assigned to an advisory group that will meet two days per week (Tuesdays & Thursdays) throughout the school year.

Affirmative Action Policy and Procedures
The M.S.A.D. #11 School Department has committed itself to an Affirmative Action Policy that insures all of its educational programs and employment policies and practices will be non-discriminatory on the basis of sex, race, or color. It also recognizes its obligations to comply with the provisions of all-existing Federal and State legislation as it relates to discrimination; furthermore, the non-discrimination policy states:
? Affirmative Action is a program designed in compliance with the U.S. Civil Rights Act of 1964 and its Educational Amendments. Its purpose is to make sure that all parts of the Civil Rights Act are being observed in all federally funded programs;
? Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender;
? Title VI prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, marital status, and handicapping condition;
? Section 504 specifically prohibits discrimination on the basis of the handicapping condition; and
? Title VII incorporates all of the aforementioned amendments in the workplace. Discrimination covers all issues that relate to prejudice, racism, and harassment toward the above named groups.

Affirmative Action (Grievance Procedures)
The grievance procedure outlines the process used for handling any complaints alleging discrimination.
Step 1 – A written complaint is filed with the district personnel listed below. Within five (5) business days, the building principal will investigate and respond in writing to the formal grievance. The Affirmative Action Coordinator will be able to assist with the development of a written complaint if requested by the offended party.
Step 2 – If the grievance is not resolved, the Affirmative Action Coordinator will bring the grievance to the attention of the district’s superintendent. The superintendent will investigate and respond in writing within five (5) business days.
Step 3 – If the grievance is not resolved to the satisfaction of the grievant, the grievant may submit written grievance to the School Board. The School Board will hear the complaint at the next board meeting, but not more than five (5) business days from the date of the appeal. The School Board will render their findings in writing within five (5) business days of the hearing date.
Step 4 – The grievant has three (3) business days to appeal the decision of a previous level of review.
NOTE – A student or employee may, at any time, file a grievance with:
? Director Director
U.S. Office of Civil Rights Maine Human Rights Commission
Department of Education Augusta, ME. 04333
Washington, D.C. 20202-2516

For further information please feel free to contact the SAD #11 Affirmative Action Coordinator.
? Diann Bailey
Title IX Affirmative Action
40 West Hill Rd.
Gardiner, ME. 04345
(207) 582-3774
Assemblies
Students are expected to attend all assemblies; however, those students who choose not to attend will have an opportunity to sign up for a study hall. Teachers will sit with their class or advisory group during assemblies. Student expectations are as follows:
? Enter the assembly area (gymnasium or Little Theater) in a quiet and orderly fashion.
? Sit in your designated area with your advisor or classroom teacher (when applicable).
? Respect the person leading the assembly by listening attentively.
? Respect your fellow classmates.
? Applaud when appropriate.
? Remain seated until dismissed.
Seating in the gymnasium:
? Seniors will be seated in the bleachers facing the entrance from the walkway from the main building.
? Juniors will sit in the bleachers immediately to the left upon entering the gym from the main building.
? Sophomores will sit in the bleachers immediately to the right upon entering from the lobby entrance.
? Freshmen will sit in the bleachers facing the lobby entrance of the gymnasium.

Assigned Tutorial (AT)
Starting with the 2007-08 school year, all teachers will be using this program with students who do not complete and turn in assigned schoolwork that will be graded. The philosophy of the program is based on our belief that each assignment created by a teacher has a purpose of strengthening skills and/or broadening academic experiences, therefore students are expected to complete all graded assignments in a timely manner. Without a structured time frame for completion of these assignments, teachers are less able to assess their students’ progress. This information is essential for teachers to help students build academic skills and good work habits.
The following is intended to demonstrate the process that will be followed as part of this practice:

• If the assignment is not completed by the due date, the teacher will assign the student to an Assigned Tutorial (AT), which will be held either with the teacher or in an AT room, depending on the content area of the teacher. The student will be expected to stay until the work is completed. Students can expect to stay after school for this AT on either the same day the assignment is due or the next school day. Teachers may pre-schedule AT’s as part of issuing assignments to students. In the event an AT is held on the same day the assignment is due, the student and/or teacher will contact a parent/guardian to inform them of the situation.

• If a student does not attend the AT, the teacher will assign him/her to an Academic Detention (see below), where the student will be required to stay after school and complete the late work.

• Please Note: Teachers will be given flexibility to extend deadlines for individual students when extenuating circumstances are involved or additional time is necessary to appropriately complete an assignment.

Academic Detention
Starting with the 2007-08 school year, all teachers will use this program with students who do not stay for Assigned Tutorials. Academic detentions are 3-hour sessions scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays and serve as a penalty for students who skip Assigned Tutorials.
o This is the student’s final opportunity to complete the assigned work.
o Failure to complete the late work during this detention will result in a grade of “0” being issued for the assignment.
o Failure to serve this detention will result in the student being suspended from school (out of school suspension) until the detention is served. *Repeated skips of three-hour detentions will result in the student being referred to the Superintendent of Schools for consideration of expulsion.*

Athletics
Academic Eligibility
Gardiner Area High School has adopted a No Pass--No Play policy for interscholastic athletics. The main purpose for this policy is to facilitate a student's educational and personal growth. This policy is intended to be proactive in monitoring students’ academic performance and maintaining the lines of communication between the school, the coach, and the home. By taking a proactive stance, our hope is to identify those students who are having academic difficulty and provide them with ample time, opportunities and services to improve their academic performance.

Initial Eligibility
A. All students must be passing all courses (minimum of 5) in the previous ranking period (quarter) in order to be initially
eligible (academically) for an athletic season. (Students failing one or more courses will be placed on academic warning status.
(This requirement begins with the start of the 2007 winter sports season).
In Season Eligibility
In order to participate, student athletes must maintain full time status (enrolled in a minimum of five (5) courses and passing all courses) throughout the athletic season.
Fall: 4th quarter grades of previous year
Winter: 1st quarter grades of current year
Spring: 2nd quarter grades of current year

B. Once a student begins a sport, the No Pass--No Play rule goes into effect.

C. Student-Athletes will be placed in one of the following three categories during the season at each academic checkpoint.
a. Eligible: Currently passing all subjects.
b. Academic Warning: Currently failing one or more subjects for the first time.
Student is eligible for competition.
c. Academic Probation: Currently failing one or more subjects for the second consecutive checkpoint. Student is ineligible for competition until the subjects he/she is currently failing (two consecutive checkpoints) are brought up to a passing level.

Insurance:
M.S.A.D. #11 has supplemental insurance for all students including athletics. Parental permission is required to take part in any athletic program.
Physical Exams:
In keeping with the recommendations of the Maine Principals’ Association and Kennebec Pediatrics, student-athletes are required to have a physical examination prior to their first participation in interscholastic athletics in MSAD #11 and every other year thereafter. Students entering high school who have not previously participated in a school sponsored athletic activity, or who participated but did not have a physical examination during their 8th grade year are required to have a physical prior to participating at the high school level. Exams done by the following types of health care providers will be accepted: medical doctor, osteopathic doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician’s assistant. Student-athletes will not be allowed to participate in athletics until documentation of the required physical examination is received by the school. For example:
• Physical examination completed prior to participation during grade 8.
*Must be during the summer prior to or during the year the student is in grade 8.*
Next physical exam will be required prior to participation during grades 10 and 12.
• Physical exam completed prior to participation during grade 9.
*Must be during the summer prior to or during the year the student is in grade 9.*
Next physical exam will be required prior to participation during grade 11.

Attendance to school
The Board of Directors of M.S.A.D. # 11 recognizes our duty to provide an education for the students of our school community. “Education” is a broad term that encompasses more than performance on examinations and other written work. A proper education includes regular attendance at and participation in classes. Learning experiences, which take place in the classroom, are essential components of the educational process. Only by being present in the classroom can the student take advantage of the many benefits of a public school education. These opportunities include group interaction with teachers and fellow students, participation in class discussions, cooperative learning activities, meaningful instruction, and other related learning experiences. When a student misses class, an important part of instruction cannot be replaced.
Regular school attendance is the responsibility of both the parent/guardian and the student. Frequent absences disrupt the continuity of the educational process. Attendance is taken in each class throughout the day. Teachers will refer students who are found to be skipping class(es) to the attendance office where they will be issued appropriate disciplinary consequences. The attendance office will also make phone calls to parents/guardians for these infractions.
Note: Attendance at GAHS is mandatory in order to attend CATC with the exception of approved medical appointments.

1. Excused Absences:
A student's absence from school is excused when the absence is for one of the following reasons:
? Illness of the student. (Absence in excess of three days requires a note from a physician to be excused)
? An appointment with a health professional. (Doctor’s slip required to be excused)
? Family emergency. (Phone contact from parent/guardian required to be excused)
? Observance of a recognized religious holiday.
? Serving a school imposed disciplinary suspension.
? Planned absence for personal /educational purpose/ participation in school sponsored events.
(Student excusal form approval required.)
Please Note: It will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian to inform the school of an absence through a phone call on the day of the absence, or a written note upon the student’s return to school. It will be the responsibility of the student to obtain an absence slip from the attendance office upon returning to school after an absence. This slip will be required to gain admittance into the classes missed during the absence.

2. Returning to school after an absence:
Excused Absences: Students who have an excused absence will be expected to make up all classroom assignments
missed due to the absence. Please refer to page 21-22 for make up work expectations.

Unexcused Absences: Students who have an unexcused absence to a class will receive disciplinary consequences for the
absence(s). This will be served on the next scheduled date of detention. Please refer to the
discipline code on page 14-15. Detention is scheduled for Tuesdays and Thursdays during the
school year except for vacations and holidays. Students will be expected to complete and turn in
all assignments due/missed from the absence. Failure to do so will result in a loss of credit for the
work. It will be the responsibility of the student to collect the work/assignments missed and bring
them to the scheduled detention(s).
Please note: Extenuating circumstances that require additional time for make up of work will be dealt
with on an individual basis with the student’s teacher(s).

3. Dismissal from school:
Prior to leaving school for any reason, students must obtain a dismissal slip through the attendance office or school nurse. Failure to do so will result in the student receiving disciplinary action for “Leaving school grounds without permission”. Please refer to the discipline code on page 14-15.

Auditing a Course
A student choosing to audit a course is required to abide by all academic and behavioral expectations within the designated course. A student does not receive credit for the course - it is simply to enrich a student's appreciation for a designated subject. In order to audit a course, the student must receive prior approval from the teacher, their guidance counselor, and the Principal.

Automobiles
The speed limit on school property is ten (10) miles per hour. Student parking is in the lower parking lot near the technology (“T”) wing. Seniors, via a lottery system, will be able to park in the upper lot. Once a student parks on school property, the vehicle must be vacated and locked. Students are not allowed in the parking lot during school hours unless they receive written permission from an administrator or teacher. Students’ vehicles parked in unauthorized areas will be subject to towing at the owner’s expense. Any vehicle parked on school property is subject to search if an administrator has reasonable suspicion of illegal contraband. Students are not allowed to transport other students off school grounds during the school day without prior administrative approval.
Please note: It is a violation of Maine Law to pass a school bus that is stopped to pick up or drop off passengers, including times when the bus is on school property. Failure to observe this traffic law will result in the student losing the privilege to park on school property. The administrator will make a referral to the appropriate law enforcement agency. Violations of these expectations may result in the student losing their privilege to bring a vehicle on school grounds.

Car passes for transportation to and from the Capital Area Technical Center
Since bus transportation is provided to and from CATC, car passes will be granted only for the following reasons:
1. A student's after school employment that would make riding the bus a hardship. This will be determined by the administrator at GAHS and the administrator at CATC.
2. Academic reasons: (a) to attend a class at GAHS; (b) to attend CATC Learning Center classes that may occur beyond times where bus transportation is provided by GAHS.
3. Extenuating circumstances agreed upon by the high school principal and the CATC director.
NOTE:
• Students who miss the bus to CATC must report to the main office. In the event that the student cannot find a ride to CATC, a parent will be contacted and the student will be sent home for the remainder of the day.
• AM CATC students are to report to the cafeteria upon their return to GAHS each day.
• All Day CATC students who arrive back at GAHS at the end of the day from CATC are to report to the cafeteria and wait for the dismissal bell to ring. Please do not go to your lockers until the bell rings.

Bus Conduct
For the safety of students who use transportation provided by M.S.A.D. #11, the following procedures will help promote safe travel on school buses.
1. Passengers will take an assigned seat and remain in the seat until the bus stops at the individual’s
point of departure. There is no acceptable reason for a student to change seats during transportation.
2. Passengers, after getting off the school bus, are to go in front of the bus and wait until the bus driver makes eye contact with them. At that time, the bus driver will signal for them to cross the street (if necessary). No passengers are to cross in back of the bus at anytime.
3. Passengers are reminded that from the moment they step on the bus until they get off the bus, they are solely responsible to the driver for their safety. The bus driver must be in complete control of the bus at all times.
4. Students should be at their morning stop five (5) minutes prior to pickup, wait by the side of the road, and avoid engaging in inappropriate activity. Stops are observed regularly by the transportation director in order to promote safety.
5. Parents need to provide written notes when it is desired that their child go to a destination other than the student’s afternoon stop, whether it be on another or the same bus. Notes are to be signed and dated by the parent and the student’s designated administrator before being given to the bus driver. The driver will not accept notes that are not signed and approved.
6. A variety of items are prohibited from the bus for safety reasons: glass containers, animals, insects, hard candy, balloons, water guns, hackey sacks, frisbees, and skateboards.
7. All school rules apply to students while riding on a school bus. Additionally,
• Students are not allowed to eat or drink on the bus.
• Students are to pick up their area prior to exiting the bus.
• Students are expected to cooperate with the bus driver.
• Students are to stay in their seat.
• Students are to keep all body parts inside the bus.

When a student does not comply with bus rules, the Transportation Director/designee will administer consequences. This action will be based upon the infraction and recommendations from the high school administration. Parents will be notified when infractions are committed. Students may lose their privilege to ride on school provided transportation if infractions become habitual. At that point the parent/guardian will become responsible for transporting their child to and from school.
NOTE: In order to help provide a safe environment for students on school provided transportation, the school board supports the use of video cameras on district vehicles. Cameras may be used to monitor student behavior. If a video becomes the basis for disciplinary action, the parents of the student will be given the opportunity to observe the video.

Cancellation of School
Local radio and television stations, WABK, 92 Moose, and television channels 6, 8 and 13 will announce school cancellations.

Care of Property
Students are expected to be respectful and to take care of school property, including school equipment, textbooks, and facilities. If a student loses or damages school property it is expected that they will make full restitution. Any unresolved issues will be reported to legal authorities and result in a loss of any and all privileges they may be eligible to have.

Change of Address
If a student, during the course of the school year, changes his/her place of residence, he/she must inform the guidance office immediately and complete a change of address form. Parents who would like to be contacted by school personnel via email can send their email address to LMcNickles@sad11.k12.me.us.
Note: By not providing the school with the appropriate information, communication in regards to progress reports, rank cards, and important mailings will be affected.

CHEMICAL HEALTH POLICY (File: JICH)
Drug And Alcohol Use By Students

The MSAD #l 1 Board of Directors and staff support a safe and healthy learning environment for students which is free of the detrimental effects of drugs and alcohol. Accomplishing this goal requires a cooperative effort among school staff, students, parents, law enforcement and organizations concerned with the use of drugs and alcohol by school-aged youth.
In order to promote the safety, health and well being of students, the Board endorses a three-pronged approach to address the issue of drug and alcohol use: prevention/education, intervention, and discipline. It is vitally important for the students, parents, staff, and community members to understand that the Board considers the purchase, sale and/or trafficking of drugs and alcohol to be an exceptionally serious infraction, which may warrant punishment up to and including expulsion. The Superintendent is responsible for developing appropriate administrative procedures, curricula and programs to implement this policy.
Prohibited Conduct
No student enrolled in or attending any program in MSAD #11 shall distribute, dispense, possess, use or be under the influence of any alcoholic beverage, malt beverage, fortified wine or other intoxicating liquor. Nor shall a student manufacture, distribute, dispense, possess, use, or be under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, or mushroom, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, anabolic steroid, any other controlled substance defined in federal and state laws/regulations, any look-alike substance or designer drug such as ecstasy, any substance that is represented to be a controlled substance, or other harmful substances such as aerosol sprays. These prohibitions apply to any student who is on school property, who is in attendance at school or at any school-sponsored activity, or whose conduct at any time or place directly interferes with the operations, discipline or general welfare of the school.
This policy does not apply to students taking medications in compliance with Board Policy JLCD - Administering Medications to Students.
Disciplinary Action
Principals may refer students to a Student Assistance Team, suspend and/or recommend expulsion of students who violate this policy, based upon the facts of each case and in accordance with established disciplinary procedures. Students will also be referred to law enforcement authorities for investigation and/or prosecution. When a student is expelled from school for an infraction of this policy, the district’s School Board, or administration may advise the student and his/her parents that the following will be favorably considered when the student applies for readmission:
• Satisfactory evidence, through testing or other means, the student has remained drug and alcohol-free during the period of expulsion
• Satisfactory evidence that the student has participated successfully in an appropriate substance abuse treatment program. See JICH - R, Drug and Alcohol Use by Students Regulations for further details regarding disciplinary procedures.
Prevention/Education
The school unit will provide students with appropriate information and activities focused on educating students about drugs and alcohol and preventing their use. Programs shall teach students that the use of drugs and alcohol is:
• Wrong and harmful
• How to resist peer pressure
• Address the legal, social, and health consequences of drug and alcohol abuse.
Intervention
MSAD #11 has established Student Assistance Teams to assist students with drug/alcohol problems. Students and parents will be provided with information and referral, if necessary, to aid them in obtaining assistance from appropriate community organizations. Student records concerning interventions shall be kept confidential as required by state and federal laws. The Board expects parents and students to work in a positive, cooperative fashion to assist students in achieving sobriety and chemical/drug-free behavior.
Policy Communication
The Superintendent shall distribute this policy and appropriate related information to staff, students and parents on an annual basis through handbooks and/or other means selected by the Superintendent and building administrators.
Legal Reference: 2 1 USC/ 8 12 (Controlled Substances Act)
21 CFR Part 1300.11-15
Pub.L.No. 101-226 (Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989)
17-A MRSA/ 1101
42 USC/290dd-2
42 CFR/2.1 et seq.
20-A MRSA// 100 l(9); 4008
Cross Reference: JICH-R - Drug and Alcohol Use by Students Regulations
GBEC - Drug-Free Workplace
JICIA - Weapons, Violence and School Safety
JIHA - Student Searches
JKD - Suspension of Students
JKE - Expulsion of Students
JLCD - Administering Medication to Students
JRA- Student Records Adopted: March 7, 2002

DRUG AND ALCOHOL USE BY STUDENTS – REGULATIONS File: JICH-R

The following regulations are intended to implement the Board’s policy JICH -Drug and Alcohol Use by Students. It is vitally important for the students, parents, staff, and community members to understand that the Board considers the purchase, sale, and/or trafficking of drugs and alcohol to be an exceptionally serious infraction, which may warrant punishment up to and including expulsion.

A. Responsibilities of School Staff
Any staff member who has reason to suspect that a student is violating the Board’s policy on Drug and Alcohol Use by students has the responsibility to:

I. Take whatever immediate action may be necessary to secure the health and
safety of the involved student(s).
II. To confiscate and secure the substance, if in the possession of the student(s)
at the time of the incident. Any searches of students and/or their property
shall be conducted in accordance with Board policy and procedures.
III. Accompany the student to the office and report the incident to the
building principal/designee for further action.

IV. If a staff member is approached by a student who is seeking help for a problem related to drug and alcohol use, the
staff member shall refer the student to the Student Assistance Team, administrator, or guidance counselor. Staff members are required to maintain confidentiality of information in accordance with applicable laws.

V. If a staff member receives information regarding a student party where drugs and/or alcohol may be used, he/she
shall inform the building principal/designee as soon as possible. The building principal/designee shall take
appropriate action, including but not necessarily limited to notifying parents and the police of this information.

B. Voluntary Referrals
Self-Referral
A student seeking assistance with a drug and/or alcohol issue may consult with a guidance counselor, administrator, or member of the Student Assistance Team. The administrator, and Student Assistance Team (when appropriate) shall meet with the student and determine the appropriate course of action on a case-by-case basis. Students who are not in violation of Board Policy JICH will not be disciplined for seeking assistance with a drug and/or alcohol issue. Students who have violated Board Policy JICH may not use the self-referral process to avoid disciplinary action.
Concerned Person Referral
A staff member, fellow student, or parent who is concerned about a student’s drug and/or alcohol use may consult with a guidance counselor, administrator, or member of the Student Assistance Team. The administrator and Student Assistance Team (when appropriate) shall meet with the student and determine the appropriate course of action on a case-by-case basis.

C. Disciplinary Action
The building principal shall notify the Superintendent of all violations of the Board’s Drug and Alcohol Use by Students Policy JICH. The following steps are intended as general guidelines for administrators. Building principals, the Superintendent and the Board have the discretion to deviate from these guidelines on a case-by-case basis. Middle School and High School students participating in extracurricular activities and athletics are subject to additional consequences as described in the Athletic Handbook.
Discipline for Adult Education students age 18 and over will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

First Offense:
1. Building principal/designee verifies offense.
2. Building principal/designee meets with student and parents.
3. Building principal/designee notifies police.
4 . Student and parents meet with administrator and Student Assistance Team (when appropriate) to develop action plan.
5. Building principal/designee determines appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including suspension from school for most first
offenses. However, in serious incidents (examples of which include concurrent infractions of Board policies and/or school rules,
sale of drugs and/or alcohol, or history of disciplinary problems with the student), the principal has the discretion to recommend
expulsion.

Second Offense or Student Failure to Complete Actions Required for First Offense:
1. Building principal/designee verifies offense.
2. Building principal/designee meets with student and parents
3. Building principal/designee notifies police. The Department of Human Services will be notified if deemed appropriate.
4. Student and parents meet with administrator and the Student Assistance Team (when appropriate) to develop action plan.
5. Building principal/designee determines appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including suspension from school for many
second offenses. However, in serious incidents (examples of which include concurrent infractions of Board policies and/or school
rules, sale of drugs and/or alcohol, or history of disciplinary problem with the student), the principal has the discretion to
recommend expulsion.
Third Offense or Failure to Complete Actions Required For Previous Offenses:
1. Building principal/designee verifies offense.
2 . Building principal/designee meets with student and parents and consults with Student Assistance Team.
3 . Building principal/designee notifies police. The Department of Human Services will be notified if deemed appropriate.
4 . Building principal/designee refers the matter to the Superintendent with a recommendation for expulsion
from school.

Readmission Considerations:
When a student is expelled from school for an infraction of this policy, the Board or the administration may advise the student and, his/her parents that the following will be favorably considered when the student applies for readmission: satisfactory evidence, through testing or other means, the student has remained drug and alcohol free during the period of expulsion; and satisfactory evidence the student has participated successfully in an appropriate substance abuse treatment program.

D. Procedure for School-Sponsored Activities
1. Remove student from activity and/or return to school.
2. Call parent/guardian to assume responsibility for student.
3. Notify building principal/designee of violation.
4 . Follow appropriate steps for disciplinary action in Section C.

E. Procedure for Medical Emergencies
When a student is intoxicated or incapacitated due to drug and/or alcohol use, school procedures for medical emergencies shall be followed.

M.S.A.D. #11 promotes a policy of non-utilization of mood and mind altering substances that adversely affect the physical, mental, and emotional health of students. The Board is committed to keeping students chemically free and to supporting state law that strictly forbids the sale or distribution of alcohol and other drugs to minors.

The Board of Directors believe the optimum environment for quality learning is one in which both staff and students feel emotionally and physically safe in a climate that is open and supportive. The misuse of drugs can undermine the climate and endanger the physical and emotional safety of both staff and students. Familiar chemical dependency problems likewise affect the learning of children and place them at risk of developing chemical health problems.
The Board of Directors also recognizes that chemical dependency (the abuse or use of alcohol, tobacco, prescription or illegal drugs) is an illness that can be treated through cooperative interventions among students, the school, and parents/legal guardians. In the implementation of this policy, the Board of Directors recognizes the student has the legal right to have any counseling kept confidential except where mandated reporting applies for student’s protection and safety.
1. Primary Prevention includes, yet is not limited to, those activities that focus on chemical health education, self-esteem, chemical free activities, decision-making, K-12 support groups, staff development, and training in coping skills.
2. Secondary Prevention addresses early intervention, referral, follow-up, and support services for students and families who may have chemical dependency problems, and use of the Student Assistance Team.
3. In school or at school related functions sanctioned by the M.S.A.D. #11 Board of Directors, a student will not:
? Use tobacco or tobacco products;
? Use, be in possession of, or furnish alcohol, illegal drugs, or look-alike or designer drugs; and
? Misuse or abuse over – the – counter medications, or prescription drugs.
4. This policy will be in effect at all times, in and out of school, for all students involved in school sponsored co-curricular activities.
5. Procedures developed under this policy will be implemented for students found to be in violation of this policy.
6. The high school principal or designee will be responsible for the enactment of this policy.
7. Prescription drugs prescribed by a student’s medical doctor will not apply to this policy, but will apply to the School Board policy regarding use and administration of medication on school property. (All medication brought to school must be checked in at the nurse’s office or the administration.
8. The administrative team, Board of Directors, and building staff will review these policies and procedures on a biannual basis.

Class Standing
At the conclusion of the third quarter, the top ten (10) students in the senior class will be ranked according to their cumulative grade point averages. Students must attend Gardiner Area High School prior to the beginning of their junior year to be considered for an honor part. The valedictorian and salutatorian students will speak at graduation. The students ranked three through six in their class will speak at the Class Day assembly. Students seeking early graduation are not figured into senior class rankings.

Closed Campus
In order to provide the safest environment for the students of Gardiner Area High School, the campus is closed to all students except for those juniors and seniors who have earned Open Campus privileges. Because the school is liable for the well being of the students who attend, it is important that teachers and administrators know the whereabouts of our students.

Community Service
In order to graduate from Gardiner Area High School, students must have completed sixty hours of documented community service; this is the equivalent to fifteen hours of volunteer activity for each year of attendance. All of the necessary paperwork is available in the high school’s main office or from a student’s homeroom advisor, and on the school’s website.
It is the responsibility of the students to:
1. Line-up community service activities and obtain pre-approval from their advisor (when necessary). Examples of appropriate community service activities include; helping with non-profit organizations, churches, service organizations, and people in need within the community (not relatives).
2. Perform the activities in a satisfactory manner.
3. Project a positive attitude to the community.
4. Secure documentation of volunteer service hours with their advisor.

Community Service activities may occur during the summer months as well as during the school year. Regardless of when the volunteer work is started, students must seek and obtain pre-approval from a school administrator. Service hours will not be accepted if completed for a relative or a business of which normally would pay the position.

Contact Home
Parent(s)/guardian(s) will be contacted by teachers in regards to their student’s academic standing four times per year with quarterly progress reports, four times per year with quarterly grade reports (report cards), and when a staff member has concerns about a student’s lack of academic progress, attendance, and/or conduct in their class. Parents and students may access course assignments, grades, and attendance online through the district’s student data management system (Powerschool). All parents will be issued a username and password at the beginning of the school year to access this information. Building administrators will notify parents when serious and/or repeat infractions are committed. Parents are encouraged to make regular contact with their child’s teachers via email. A staff email directory will provided to all parents/guardians each year.

Correspondence Courses
Correspondence courses will be allowed for graduation credit under the following circumstances:
1. Student must be in their senior year (4th) of high school.
*Early graduates will not be allowed to take a correspondence course towards their graduation requirements.*
2. Course is taken only after failing a required or elective credit course at GAHS (minimum grade of 50).
3. The course must be completed prior to participation in any senior graduation activities.
4. The student will be responsible for all expenses incurred from taking the course.
5. Student receives prior written approval from their guidance counselor and the building Principal.

Course Failures
Students who do not meet the requirements of a specific course, thereby failing the course, are required to meet with their respective guidance counselor to discuss options for re-taking the failed course. These options may include taking a summer school course(s), an approved Adult Education course, repeating the same course, or taking a course that is deemed as a make-up course.

Course Expectations/Syllabi
All teachers at Gardiner Area High School will provide their students with a course syllabus for each class they teach.
This document will outline:
• Course goals and objectives (established by the department).
• An outline of the course (by ranking period) including a listing of topics to be covered, assignments, and assessments.
• Grading and evaluation procedures (established by the department).
• A copy of the school’s “Assigned Tutorial” program and the “Make-up policy”.
• An email address for regular correspondence.
• Specific times when the teacher is available to students for make-up and academic assistance.

A written copy of these expectations will be distributed to each student and will also be made available to parent(s)/guardian(s) at the fall parent/teacher conferences. A copy of these expectations will also be kept on file with the building Principal.

At the end of a semester for semester courses and at the end of the year for year long courses, students will be expected to evaluate their courses based upon the expectations that are distributed at the start of the school year.

Dances
School dances are held for high school students only. GAHS students are allowed to bring one guest to dances with approval from administration in advance of the dance. Guests must be enrolled in an area high school and be in good standing with their respective school’s administrators. GAHS dances are held on Friday or Saturday nights from 7:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. in the school gym. Special dances such as the Sno-Ball and the Jr.-Sr. Prom may be held off campus and have different starting and ending times. Students who are graduates of GAHS, or an area high school within the past two years, will be allowed as guests to the Sno-Ball and Jr.-Sr. Prom upon prior approval of GAHS administration. Once students have entered a dance, they are to remain in the building and will not be allowed to return if they leave. All school rules apply and anyone found to be in violation will have appropriate consequences issued by administration. Middle school students are not to attend any GAHS dances and high school students are not to attend middle school dances. Students who are on suspension may not attend any school functions, including dances. Students who are not in school on the day of a dance (Friday dances), or the day prior to a dance (Saturday dances) will not be allowed to attend a dance.

Daily Schedule
Gardiner Area High School is open to students starting at 7:00 a.m. Upon entering the school, students are to stay in supervised areas only, primarily in the cafeteria or teachers classrooms. G.A.H.S. is not responsible for students prior to 7:00 a.m.
(Monday-Wednesday-Friday)
Period 1: 7:30 – 8:50 80 Minutes
Period 2 * 8:55 – 10:20 85 Minutes
Period 3: 10:25 – 12:25 85 Minutes
Lunch Schedule
1st Lunch 2nd Lunch 3rd Lunch
10:25 – 10:55 Lunch 10:25 – 11:10 Class 10:25 – 11:50 Class
10:55 – 11:00 Pass 11:10 – 11:40 Lunch 11:50 – 11:55 Pass
11:00 – 12:25 Class 11:40 – 11:45 Pass 11:55 – 12:25 Lunch
11:45 – 12:25 Class

Period 4: 12:30 – 1:55 85 Minutes
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Tuesday-Thursday)
Period 1: 7:30 – 8:50 80 Minutes
Advisory: 8:55 – 9:20 25 Minutes
Period 2 * 9:25 – 10:40 75 Minutes
Period 3: 10:45 – 12:35 75 Minutes
Lunch Schedule
1st Lunch 2nd Lunch 3rd Lunch
10:45 – 11:15 Lunch 10:45 – 11:20 Class 10:45 – 12:00 Class
11:15 – 11:20 Pass 11:20 – 11:50 Lunch 12:00 – 12:05 Pass
11:20 – 12:35 Class 11:50 – 11:55 Pass 12:05 – 12:35 Lunch
11:55 – 12:35 Class

Period 4: 12:40 – 1:55 75 Minutes

The bus for AM and All Day CATC students will leave GAHS at 8:55 am.
The bus for PM CATC students will leave GAHS at 10:45 am
The bus returning AM CATC students to GAHS will leave CATC at 11:30 am and arrive at GAHS at approximately 11:50 am.
The bus returning PM and All Day CATC students will leave CATC at 1:35 pm and arrive at GAHS at approximately 1:55 pm.

Early Release Schedule
Period 1 (O/B) 7:30 - 8:30 60 Minutes
Passing 8:30 - 8:35
Period 2 (O/B) 8:35 - 9:30 55 Minutes
Passing 9:30 - 9:35
Period 3 (O/B) 9:35 - 10:30 55 Minutes
Passing 10:30 - 10:35
Period 4 (O/B) 10:35 - 11:30 55 Minutes
Discipline Policy And Procedures
Discipline, according to the M.S.A.D. #11 School Board, is the process of teaching individuals to develop and demonstrate responsible decision making skills. In addition, the goal of education is to help individuals develop the self-discipline needed to become a contributing and responsible member of the community. Effective discipline in the school assures that each student and educator has the right to learn and work in a safe environment with a freedom from fearful or abusive treatment by others. Discipline is an integral part of sound public education. More specifically the aim of proactive discipline is to help students develop:
? Respect for themselves;
? Respect for the rights of others;
? Respect and acceptance of the differences of others; and
? Responsibility and acceptance of consequences for their behavior.
The achievement of this proactive discipline is the shared responsibility of the individual, the home, and the school.
Procedures:
The building principal/designee will annually publish and distribute a student handbook that includes:
1. district discipline policy statement.
2. administrative disciplinary referral procedures.
An administrative referral form will be completed by a teacher/administrator when disciplinary consequences are issued as a result of a marked interruption in the student’s school day. The administrator and the student shall sign all forms (if a student chooses not to sign the referral, it will be noted upon the form). One copy will be mailed home, one placed in the students discipline file, and one returned to the teacher. Any student who receives three suspensions will be referred to the Superintendent of Schools by the Principal.
Implementing Consequences:
Staff shall have the responsibility to use appropriate behavioral consequences, subject to the approval of the building Principal/designee, to foster appropriate discipline and support the district discipline policy. Physical force is not an alternative to foster appropriate behavior. Staff shall utilize every source available to give guidance to their students and may refer only marked cases of discipline for administrative action. Classroom management is an essential component of effective teaching – therefore teachers are responsible for disciplinary consequences within their classroom. A teacher may refer a student for administrative action after they have documented actions they have previously taken – including a phone call home to the parent(s)/guardian(s). When a student is referred to a building principal for administrative action, the principal, assistant principal, or their designee may use the following discipline code in any sequence depending upon the nature and severity of the infraction:

Discipline Code
Extended Day Detention (EDD)
The purpose of our discipline code is to change inappropriate student behavior through consistent consequences. Students’ classroom experiences are essential to their learning. We strive to effect student classroom time as little as possible. For this reason we have established an extended detention on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:05 to 5:05. All office detentions will be served during these times. If this time is in conflict with students’ personal schedules, it is suggested they act appropriately to avoid the consequences that cause such a hardship. Skipping and/or removal from a one or two hour detention will result in a three-hour detention. Skipping and/or removal from a three-hour detention will result in an out of school suspension (OSS) until the detention is served. Any student who is suspended from school (out of school suspension) will be required to serve a three-hour detention (EDD) upon their return.

Level 1: Student Behavior Disciplinary action
• Classroom disruptions that interfere with learning 1st 30 minute teacher detention
• Use of recreational items during the school day: 2nd 1-hour detention
(cell phones, pagers, laser lights, hats, I-Pods, etc.) 3rd–5th 1-three-hour detention

• Recreational items will be confiscated and turned into administration. These items may be picked up at the end of the school day upon approval of an administrator. Repeated violations will result in additional action by administration.
• Students who are tardy to class three or more times per quarter, will be assigned a one-hour detention by either the teacher, or the attendance office.
• Continued level 1 behaviors (excess of 5) will result in additional disciplinary action by administration.
• Skipping Class- 90 minute detention (each infraction)

Level 2: Student Behavior Disciplinary action
• Leaving school building without permission 1st 3-hour detention
• *Skipping school (2 or more classes per day) 2nd (2) 3-hour detentions
• Inappropriate/reckless use of vehicle 3rd-5th 1-day of OSS (each infraction)
• Cheating / Plagiarism
• Swearing/obscene gestures/disrespectful behavior
• Skipping a teacher detention (academic/conduct) (3-hour detention each infraction)
* Indicates this infraction will start as a 2nd offense in this Level.
Continued level 2 behaviors (excess of 5 infractions) will result in the student being referred to the Superintendent of Schools
for consideration of expulsion.

Level 3:
Student Behavior Disciplinary action
• Fighting/physical violence (police) 1st 6 days OSS
• Harassment of others/instigation of a fight (police) 2nd 8 days OSS (meeting with Principal)
• Damage to school property (police) 3rd 10 days OSS (Meeting with Superintendent)
• Vulgarity towards a staff member 4th OSS and Meeting with MSAD11 School Board
• Theft (police)

Level 4-Criminal Behavior
Student Behavior Disciplinary action
• Arson (police) 10 days OSS (student referred to
• Burglary (police) Superintendent for consideration of expulsion)
• Possession of a weapon (police)
• Possession/use/distribution of tobacco products (police)
• Possession/sale/use/distribution of illegal drugs,
• controlled substances, or drug paraphernalia (police)
• Criminal threatening (Including Bomb Threats)
* All student suspensions will be subject to the student Suspension Policy, JKD and Student Expulsion Policy, JKE.

Note:
It is impossible to foresee every possible situation; therefore school administration and MSAD #11 reserve the right to administer appropriate disciplinary consequences for unforeseen situations as deemed necessary. When a conflict arises between the information provided in this handbook and school policy, school policy will govern.

Any student who violates the drug and alcohol use policy (1st offense) will have the option reducing the disciplinary consequences for the infraction by participating in the ADCARE drug education program.

Display Of Affection
Each student has the right to feel comfortable in school. Therefore, public displays of affection, which go beyond holding hands, can be offensive to both staff and students. Affection should be kept private and away from school grounds. Staff members will warn students who violate this policy. The issue will be documented in the student’s conduct file. Subsequent violations will be followed up with disciplinary consequences.
Dress Code For Students
Student attire and grooming play a role in the educational setting. Students are expected to take pride in their personal appearance and hygiene. It is expected that students be clean and dressed in appropriate clothing. The school administration shall make the final determination of what attire is appropriate or not. Attire that causes a disruption to the educational environment, or is determined to be a possible threat to self/others will not be allowed. Clothing is to be clean, neat, and conceal a student’s abdomen, chest, upper thighs, and buttocks.
The following are examples of inappropriate clothing/attire:
1. Any type of headwear: caps, hats, bandannas, headbands, hoods, and long coats/jackets (trench coats).
* These items are to be stored in the student’s locker upon entering the school building.
2. Garments that are found to be offensive or disruptive to the learning process.
3. Bare feet
4. Spiked collars and/or cuffs, pointed or jagged jewelry, excessive chains, and any type of metal that covers hands and/or fists that may pose a safety hazard to self and others. (Items will be confiscated and can be picked up be a parent/guardian)

The school dress code remains in effect unless the administration approves for allowances such as: “Spirit Week", rallies, or other types of school promotional activities. Jackets and sweatshirts will be allowed during the Winter months if the school building, or an individual classroom is exceptionally cold.

In the event where a student is in violation of the dress code policy, the student will be asked to change his/her clothing, or phone home to get a change of clothing. If the student is unwilling to change clothing, the student will be sent home (after parental contact) for the remainder of the school day and be required to serve a three-hour detention assigned by the appropriate administrator. Students who are habitual offenders will face administrative consequences deemed appropriate by the Principal/designee.
Electronic Acceptable Use Policy File: INA-R
STUDENT COMPUTER AND INTERNET RULES

These rules implement Board Policy INA Student Computer and Internet Use Policy. The rules are intended to provide general guidelines and examples of prohibited uses, but do not attempt to state all required or prohibited activities by users. Failure to comply with Board Policy IN-A and these rules may result in loss of computer and Internet access privileges, disciplinary action, and/or legal action.

A. Computer Use is a Privilege, Not a Right
Student use of MSAD#11s computers, networks, and Internet services is a privilege, not a right. Unacceptable use or activity may result in suspension or cancellation of privileges as well as additional disciplinary and legal action.
The building principal shall have final authority to decide whether a student’s privileges will be denied or revoked.

B. Acceptable Use
Student access to the district’s computers, networks, equipment, and Internet services are provided for educational purposes and research consistent with the district’s educational mission, curriculum, and instructional goals.
The same rules and expectations govern student use of computers, equipment, and Internet access as applies to other student conduct and communications.
Students are further expected to comply with these rules and all specific instructions from the teacher or other supervising staff member/volunteer when accessing the school unit’s computers, equipment, networks, and Internet services.

C. Prohibited Use
The user is responsible for his/her actions and activities involving district computers, equipment, networks, and Internet services, and for his/her computer files, passwords and accounts. Examples of unacceptable uses that are expressly prohibited include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Accessing Inappropriate Materials- Accessing, submitting, posting, publishing, forwarding, downloading, scanning, or displaying materials that are defamatory, abusive, obscene, vulgar, sexually explicit, sexually suggestive, threatening, discriminatory, harassing and/or illegal;
2. Illegal Activities- Using the school unit’s computers, networks, and Internet services for any illegal activity or that violates other Board policies, procedures and/or school rules;
3. Violating Copyrights- Copying or downloading copyrighted materials without the owner’s permission;
4. Plagiarism- Representing as one’s own work any materials obtained on the Internet (such as term papers, articles, etc). When Internet sources are used in student work, the author, publisher and web site must be identified;
5. Copying Software- Copying or downloading software without the express authorization of the system administrator. Unauthorized copying of software is illegal and may subject the copier to substantial civil and criminal penalties;
6. Non-School-Related Uses- Using the school unit’s computers, networks, equipment, and Internet services for non-school-related purposes such as private financial gain; commercial, advertising or solicitation purposes, or for any other personal use.
7. Misuse of Passwords/Unauthorized Access- Sharing passwords, using other users’ passwords without permission and/or accessing other users’ accounts;
8. Malicious Use/Vandalism- Any malicious use, disruption, altering, or harm to the school district’s computers, software, equipment, networks, and Internet services, including but not limited to hacking activities and creation/uploading of computer viruses
9. Unauthorized Access to Chat Rooms/News Groups- Accessing chat rooms or news groups without specific authorization from the supervising teacher;

D. No Expectation of Privacy
MSAD#11 retains control, custody, and supervision of all computers, networks and Internet services owned or leased by the district. MSAD#11 reserves the right to monitor all computer and Internet activity by students. Students have no expectation of privacy in their use of school computers, including e-mail and stored files.
E. Compensation for Losses, Costs, and/or Damages
The student and/or the student’s parent/guardian shall be responsible for compensating the school unit for any losses, costs or damages incurred by the school unit related to violations of policy INA, EGAD, INA-R, and/or these rules, including investigation of violations.
F. School Unit Assumes No Responsibility for Unauthorized Charges, Costs, Illegal Use
The district assumes no responsibility for any unauthorized charges made by students, including but not limited to the credit card charges, long distance telephone charges, equipment and line costs, or for any illegal use of its computers such as copyright violations.
G. Student Security
A student shall not reveal his/her full name, address or telephone number on the Internet without prior permission from a supervising teacher. Students should never meet people they have contacted through the Internet without parental permission. Students should inform their supervising teacher if they access information or messages that are dangerous, inappropriate or make them uncomfortable in any way.
H. System Security
The security of the school district’s computers, networks and Internet services is a high priority. Any user who identifies a security problem must notify the director of technology. The user shall not demonstrate the problem to others. Any user who attempts or causes a breach of system security shall have his/her privileges revoked and may be subject to additional disciplinary and/or legal action.
I. Parental Acknowledgment Required
Students and their parent/guardian are required to sign and return the Computer/Internet Access Acknowledgment Form before being allowed to use school computers.

Examinations
(Midyear and Finals)
All students with the exception of those who achieve a “95” average in a course (all ranking periods for the course included) will be required to take final exams for all courses. Students achieving the “95” average in a course will not be required to take the final exam for that course. All students will be required to take mid-year exams for full-year courses. The midyear exam for a semester course is considered to be the final exam for the course. Common assessments that are part of the district’s assessment system, that represent a portion of, or the entire mid-year or final exam are not subject to exemptions and are required to be taken by all students.

The following rules will govern during exams:
1. If an exam is skipped (an unexcused absence), the Academic Detention process will be followed. (See page 5 for details.)
2. If an exam (that is taken) fails the student for the semester, the student will be allowed one retake of the exam and earn up to one-half the points missed on the original exam.
3. Students must remain in the classroom until the testing period ends.
4. Students who request an exam schedule change must get administrative approval one week prior to the exam.
5. Students requesting a change in the final exam schedule can only do so for emergency purposes.
6. If a student does not have a scheduled exam but has one later in the day, he/she is to report to the cafeteria to study for the exam. Once a student has finished their exam(s) for the day and has no others, he/she is expected to exit the building after the testing period has ended for the remainder of the day.

Fire Drills / Evacuations
Periodically throughout the year the high school will practice evacuations in the event of a fire or bomb threat. It is expected that students will take these drills seriously; therefore, when an alarm sounds:
1. Students quiet down and listen for instructions from their teacher.
2. Students will evacuate the building in an orderly fashion following the evacuation plan posted in the classroom.
3. Once students are at their designated area outside the building, they are to remain with their teacher so that attendance can be taken to verify every student’s whereabouts.
4. In the event a student is out of the classroom, the student is to exit through the nearest door and locate their classroom teacher.
5. Students will return to classrooms in an orderly fashion once an administrator gives an “all clear” signal.

Full Time Student Status
In order for students to participate in athletics, clubs, organizations, and be recognized for honor roll or other academic honors, students must be enrolled in a minimum of five (5) credits per quarter. A student can still be recognized as a Gardiner Area High School student if he/she does not carry the minimum load of credits. Part-time students will not be eligible for the privileges available to full time students including; Honor Roll Status, Honor Roll Privileges, Class Rank, Gardiner Scholars, National Honor Society, and school sponsored scholarships.
Gardiner Scholars and Class Standing Selections
Gardiner Scholar’s recognizes students who are in the top ten (10) percent of their class at the conclusion of each school year. Graduating seniors will be recognized for this accomplishment during the “Class Day” ceremony. Underclassmen (grades 9-11) will be recognized for the accomplishment during the “Academic Awards Night” ceremony in the spring of each year for the previous year’s academic work.
At the conclusion of the third quarter of the senior year, the top ten (10) students in the senior class will be ranked according to their cumulative grade point averages. Students must attend Gardiner Area High School prior to the beginning of their junior year in order to be considered for this honor. The valedictorian and the salutatorian will speak at graduation and the seniors who are ranked 3rd through 6th will speak at Class Day.
MSAD #11 MASTERY AND GRADING POLICY PK-12

Mastery Definition
The mastery of standards in MSAD #11 shows what a student has accomplished. Mastery is the point in a student’s learning at which there are clear, observable, and consistent demonstrations of the State of Maine Learning Results and subject area standards. A student mastering a standard can recall and apply this knowledge over time with minimal review and in varied circumstances.

Reporting/Grading Guide
The following guide has been established to guide students, parents, and teachers in determining mastery of individual standards. Student evidence must also be collected to support the determination. This guide will become effective in the 2007/08 school year. All schools, all subjects, and all grade levels will use the same comparison chart. No pass/fail grades will be used.

Students will be assessed in two categories: content and non-academic achievement factors. Assessment of these categories will be based on MSAD #11’s curriculum standards which are aligned with Maine’s Learning Results. Non-academic achievement factors can include effort, attendance, participation, homework, time on task, behavior, citizenship, preparation, and/or workmanship as defined by the grade span work habits rubric. These non-academic achievement factors will be termed “work habits/social skills” for grades PK-2, 3-5, and “work habits” for grades 6 through 12.

Mastery Level Rubric Scale Letter Grade Traditional Grade Common Assessment
E
E
4 4.00
3.67 A
A-
97-100
93-96
100
M
M
M
3 3.33
3.00
2.67 B+
B
B-
86-92
85
80-84
85

PM
PM
PM
2 2.33
2.00
1.67 C+
C
C- 76-79
75
70-74
75

DNM
DNM

1
1.33
1.00
F
F
65-69
40-64

60

NOTES:
o No student shall receive a grade below 60% on a Common Assessment
o No student shall receive a grade below 40% on any work (Ex. If an assignment is worth ten points and a student score is 2, it will be reported as 4. The student will receive a 2 on his/her paper.
o If work is not scorable (N) (illegible), the student will be given another opportunity to demonstrate proficiency through a different modality.
o Missing work will be reported as NE or Incomplete on the report card.
o Insufficient evidence will be reported as IE or Incomplete on the report card.
o Sufficient evidence entails 3-5 pieces of student work for each standard.
E -Exceeds the Standard
Exceeds expectations related to standard as defined by assessment rubric
Consistently provides evidence of above-mastery for tasks in subject standards
Consistently shows advanced application of knowledge to other situations

M -Meets the Standard
Meets expectations related to standard as defined by assessment rubric
Usually provides evidence of mastery for tasks in subject standards
Usually shows satisfactory application of knowledge to other situations

PM -Partially Meets the Standard
Occasionally meets expectations related to standard as defined by assessment rubric
Occasionally provides evidence of mastery for tasks in subject standards
Occasionally shows satisfactory application of knowledge to other situations

This student is progressing toward meeting expectations related to standard. More time and
assistance is needed in helping him/her master the curriculum standard(s).

DNM -Does Not Meet the Standard
Seldom meets expectations related to standard as defined by assessment rubric.
Has not shown mastery of expectations related to standards
Seldom shows application of knowledge to other situations

IE -Insufficient Evidence (on one major assignment or on several assignments related to one standard).

N -Not Scorable-There is no evidence of meeting the expectations related to the standard on the student work
(Value of 0 until the work is done) Multiple opportunities to complete work will be provided.

NE -No Evidence-Student has not done any work. (Value of 0 until the work is done) Multiple opportunities to
complete work will be provided.

Departments and/or Grade Levels will decide on the weight to be assigned to a Common Assessment. All students in the same grade/course will have their grades receive the same value for these assessments.

Students Who Exceed Standards
Should a student excel and achieve mastery of a curriculum standard and/or performance expectation before other students, the student will be provided with enrichment activities related to the curriculum standard and/'or performance expectation, and/or will be provided the opportunity to move to the next curriculum or academic level.
Students Not Achieving Mastery
Should a student not achieve mastery of a curriculum standard and/or performance expectation, the student will participate in one or all of the following:
• After school tutorial sessions, Saturday school, and/or summer school
• Repeat the educational experience (this could mean repeating a lesson, series of lessons, a course, or the entire year's instruction depending on the student's progress, ability, and/or
attitude).
If a student does not achieve mastery of a curriculum standard and/or performance expectation, and does not participate in any or all of the above remediation activities, retention may be necessary in accordance with district Retention/Promotion policy.
Parental Involvement
Parental support is crucial in helping children achieve mastery of all curriculum standards. If parents do not agree with the evaluation of their child, they may consult with the child's teacher and school principal.
Recommendations about Assessments
Assessments will align with subject area standards. The final determination of mastery will be based on a collection of evidence. A combination of assessments will provide evidence that supports the decision about mastery of standards for each student. Examples of these tools include: student self-assessments, tests, written and oral assignments, projects, products, and student performance. Teachers will use more than one assessment to check for mastery. Adopted: June 2, 2005

Incomplete or delayed grades must be completed within two (2) weeks after the close of the ranking period. Any student who has an incomplete for a quarter grade will receive a “00” on his/her report card. The student will have two (2) weeks after grades close to make-up work. After the two-week period, if arrangements have not been made with a teacher, earned grades will be reported. A student who is absent for a prolonged period of time due to a documented illness, hospitalization, or family emergency may request consideration for extended make-up time. Administration will be required to approve any extensions beyond the deadline. An incomplete will prohibit a student from making Honor Roll until the work is made up.
Guests And Visitors
Visitors with an educational purpose may visit Gardiner Area High School. Permission to visit the school must be obtained at least two (2) days in advance from administration. The host student must complete and submit to administration a guest request form. This form requires signatures from each of the teachers scheduled for the host student, the host students’ guidance counselor, and an administrator before the visitation is approved. If the guest is a student from another school, that student must have documentation from their parent/guardian, and their school verifying permission to visit GAHS. The day of the visit, the guest must register with the main office upon entering the school. Anyone who does not register with the main office upon entering the school building will be asked to leave the school grounds immediately.

Harassment Policy (M.S.A.D. #11)
M.S.A.D. #11 recognizes the right of each employee and student to work and/or attend school in an atmosphere that is free of intimidation, hostility, and offensiveness. In order to ensure a safe climate, employees and students are not to engage in the harassment of subordinates, co-workers, students, or peers. M.S.A.D. #11 does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, age, mental status, sexual orientation, or physical disability. In addition sexual harassment is defined as any unwelcome sexual advance, request for sexual favors, or other physical or verbal contact of a sexual nature when:
? Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly as a term or condition of an individual’s employment or education;
? Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for academic/employment decisions affecting that individual;
? Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s academic or professional performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive employment, education, or living environment; and
? Examples of prohibited forms of harassment:
1. Unwelcome advances, gestures, comments, or contact
2. Intimidating threats of verbal or physical violence.
3. Offensive jokes heard directly or overheard indirectly
4. Ridicules, slurs, derogatory actions or remarks.

Responding to any form of harassment:
Employees or students who believe they are victims of harassment should report such occurrences to the Affirmative Action representative at GAHS. This M.S.A.D. #11 employee will advise the person who has allegedly been harassed the options available to this person
? M.S.A.D. #11 Grievance Procedures
? Human Rights Commission complaint
? Title IX civil action
? Formal request for discipline by the superintendent and/or Board of Directors

Home Schooling
M.S.A.D. #11 policy regarding Home Schooling is available through administration or through the guidance office. Students who are interested in being home schooled and want to have the course work be considered for Gardiner Area High School credit must present a learning plan to the building Principal for pre-approval. Any plans that are not pre-approved may not be accepted by M.S.A.D. #11.

Honor Roll
A student attains Highest Honors with an average of 95-100, High Honors with an average of 90-94, and Honors with an average of 85-89. A student must carry five (5) credits each ranking period to be eligible for Honor Roll. All grades must be 80 or higher in all subjects each ranking period. If a student withdraws from a class, the withdrawal grade will count towards his/her quarterly average.

Honor Roll Privileges
Students who are on the Honor Roll will not be assigned to a study hall and may go to either the cafeteria or library during non-class time. Honor Roll students who roam the halls and are disruptive to classes will lose their privileges for a time designated by an administrator. Honor roll students (with the exception of those who also have Open Campus privileges) who leave campus during this time will lose their privileges and be assigned to a study hall until the next ranking period. Students with excessive absences and/or disciplinary referrals will have their Honor Roll privileges revoked for a period of time determined by GAHS administration.

Immunizations/Health Records
During a student’s senior year, the school nurse will, upon request, copy for the student a record of their immunizations. This immunization record is an important document that should be filed in a secure place. At the end of the school year, the entire health record may be returned to graduates. Records that are left behind will be stored for seven (7) years at the Superintendent’s office. The immunization portion of these records will be kept for as long as space allows. By law, schools are required to keep the immunization record on file only on enrolled students.
Tetanus Booster/Chickenpox (Varicella)
A tetanus booster is recommended every ten (10) years. This typically comes due at age 15. Please be sure to indicate the date of the last shot you have had on your emergency card. This information is necessary in the case of minor cuts and scrapes at school. By the start of the school year 2007, all students in grades K-12 should be vaccinated against chickenpox or be able to show proof of immunity.
Library/Media Center
Loan Policy:
1. Students may borrow up to five (5) books or library resources on their account for a period of two weeks.
2. Materials may be renewed for an additional two weeks.
3. Overdue notices for materials not returned will be sent to the student through their homeroom advisor. Severely overdue notices will result in the loss of library privileges.
4. Borrowers are responsible for materials and will be expected to pay for any lost or damaged items.
Sign-in Procedure:
1. Students are required to have a pass and sign-in to use the library/media center.
2. At times, access to the media center may be limited due to the number of students or classes already using the facility.
Library Rules and Regulations:
1. The library/media center is a place of inquiry, study, research, completion of assignments, or pleasure reading.
2. Students will lose their library privileges for the following time periods if they are removed from the library:
1st offense: (2) weeks 2nd offense: (4) weeks 3rd offense: (6) weeks

Lockers
While lockers are assigned to students, they remain the property of M.S.A.D. #11 and Gardiner Area High School. Students can obtain locks in the main office for an initial deposit of five dollars ($5), which will be returned to the student upon return of the lock. GAHS will not assume financial responsibility for stolen items from unsecured lockers, or for the removal of locks that are not school issued. It is strongly recommended that all students rent a lock in order to protect their belongings in their locker.

Lockdown Situation
In the event where an announcement over the intercom states there is a lockdown situation in the building, students who are in an open area must report to the nearest classroom. Upon hearing the announcement, teachers are to quickly check outside their doorway for any students in their area and then lock their door, cover their door window, and have the students move to a designated area of the classroom and remain quiet. Teachers and students will remain in the classroom unless otherwise directed to do so by either an administrator or a law enforcement officer. It is imperative that teachers and students remain calm and in a lock-down situation.

Lunch Time Expectations
Lunch is a time to relax and socialize with friends. During this time students are required to report to and stay in the cafeteria to eat their lunch. Students are expected to clean up after themselves prior to leaving the cafeteria. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary consequences, which may include the student assisting the custodial staff with cleaning the entire cafeteria.

Expectations For Make Up Work
When a student is absent from school, even for several days, it is his/her responsibility to find out what assignments were missed from each of their teachers upon returning to classes. Due to the variety of situations that are involved with absences and make up work, students should be prepared for the following expectations from their teachers.
Assignments:
• If a student is present when an assignment is given, but absent when the assignment is due, the student will be expected to turn in the assignment upon returning to the class.
• If a student is absent on the day an assignment is given, the student will have the same amount of time to complete the assignment as those students who were present, beginning with the next scheduled class day.
• If a student is absent from class due to a school activity on the day an assignment is due, the student is responsible for turning in the assignment prior to leaving for the activity unless prior arrangements have been made with the teacher.
Assessments:
• If a student misses an assessment due to an absence, but was present when the assessment was scheduled, the student will be responsible for taking the assessment during the next scheduled class. Alternate arrangements may be made with the teacher when appropriate.
• If a student is absent when an assessment is scheduled, they will have the same amount of time to prepare for the assessment as the students who were present, beginning on the day the student returns to the class.
Please Note the following:
• If it is apparent that a student is going to be out of school for an extended period of time, the student’s parents should call the school in order to make arrangements to pick up assignments.
• Gardiner Area High School has established a “Late Work” policy that will be used when students do not meet these expectations.
• It is recognized that there will be situations where the above expectations will need to be modified due to extenuating circumstances. In situations such as this, it will be the obligation of the student and parent to meet with the teacher and a school administrator to develop an appropriate plan.

Messages
To help cut down on the number of classroom interruptions, the main office secretaries of Gardiner Area High School will not interrupt a class to deliver a message except in the case of an emergency. Please inform your son/daughter ahead of time about appointments so the proper dismissal procedure is used and that the appointment does not jeopardize the learning process of other students. The secretaries in the main office are busy with school related issues and do not have time to deliver flowers, cards, or messages to students.
National Honor Society
Membership in the National Honor Society is based upon meeting the criteria in four categories: scholarship, leadership, service, and character. To be eligible for NHS, a student must be either a junior or senior and maintain a cumulative grade point average of 85 or higher. The NHS handbook defines the four categories as:
Leadership:
• The student who exercises leadership
• Demonstrating leadership in promoting school activities
• Exercises influence on peers in upholding school ideals
• Exemplifies positive attitudes
• Inspires positive behavior in others
• Demonstrates academic initiative
• Successfully holds school offices and positions of responsibility
• Demonstrates leadership in the classroom, at work, and in school activities
Service:
• Participates in some outside activities: church groups, scouts, community service
• Works well with others and is willing to take on difficult and inconspicuous responsibilities
• Cheerfully and enthusiastically renders any requested service at school
• Shows courtesy by assisting visitors, teachers, and other students
Character:
• Takes criticism willingly and accepts recommendations graciously
• Upholds principles of morality and ethics
• Cooperates by complying with school regulations concerning property, programs, and behavior
• Shows concern, courtesy, and respect for others
• Exemplifies desirable qualities of personality (cheerfulness, friendliness, poise, stability, punctuality)

New Students
New students who register at Gardiner Area High School must have their previous schools transcripts and medical records forwarded to the Gardiner School District during the enrollment process. Once all records are received the student and the students parent(s)/guardian(s) will meet with a guidance counselor and an administrator to officially enroll. Therefore, in order to enroll at Gardiner Area High School the student/parent must:
1. Schedule an appointment with the guidance department
2. Bring proof of residency, custody, and immunization records
3. Bring a current copy of their schedule and report card
4. Bring a copy of the student's birth certificate
5. Schedule an appointment with the designated administrator
(Exceptions will be made for homeless students in compliance with the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act)

Nurse’s Office
(School Health Services)
Students who become ill, or are injured at school should report to the health office to be seen by the school nurse. If the student needs to be dismissed, or needs further treatment, the school nurse will contact the parent/guardian. If the student is not dismissed he/she will receive a pass to return to class.

Medication at School:
Students are strongly urged to schedule the taking of medicine outside of school hours. If it is necessary for students to take prescription medicine at school, the medication needs to be delivered to the school nurse. The first dose of a new medication should never be given at school. All prescription medications should come in a pharmacy-labeled container for the school. Upon request, students’ pharmacists will provide the student with an extra pharmacy-labeled container for the school. The label needs to include the student’s name, type of medication, exact dosage to be taken, times the dosage needs to be taken, the prescribing doctor’s name, and the date the medication was prescribed. A form title, “Request to Administer Medication” needs to be filed by a parent/guardian in order for the school nurse to administer medication to the student.
In addition to medication being administered solely from the health office, the High School has the following provision: there are certain prescription medications such as EpiPens, and asthma inhalers that students may carry and self-administer with parental/guardian permission, a physician’s order and approval of the school nurse. These mediations should be brought to the health office to be recorded by the school nurse.
Non-Prescription/Over the counter Medications:
The policy for grades 9-12 states: “With increased expectations and responsibility given to high school students, certain flexibility needs to be made regarding access to medications.” High school students may carry and self-administer non-prescription or over the counter medications such as Tylenol, Ibuprofen, or medicated cough drops with written permission of the parent/guardian or physician. This medication should be in its original, labeled container. The parent/guardian has the opportunity to indicate on the schools emergency card whether they want to give their student permission to carry non-prescription or over the counter medications. New Emergency cards need to be filed each year. Students may be administered Tylenol in the health office by the school nurse if parental/guardian permission has been given on the student’s Emergency Card. Any questions can be referred to Diane Giffen, R.N. (dgiffen@sad11.k12.me.us) or 582-3150.

Open Campus
Open campus is a privilege available to both juniors and seniors who meet the following criteria:
1. The student is enrolled in five courses or five credits per quarter.
2. The student (Seniors) has completed:
Seniors: 45 hours of community service (1st semester).
53 hours of community service (2nd semester).
Juniors: 30 hours of community service (1st semester).
38 hours of community service (2nd semester).
3. The student is in good academic standing in all of their classes. (Honor Roll status).
4. The student is in good standing regarding GAHS's code of conduct. (No disciplinary issues.)

Open campus privileges are subject to being revoked for disciplinary reasons outlined in the permission form. This form must be completed and on file with administration prior to the student being allowed to utilize their privileges.

Panhandling
The school environment is one that should be free from all forms of harassment. Students are not to stop other students or teachers in the hallways or in the cafeteria in order to ask for money.

Passes
Teachers are only to grant passes for the following reasons:
Bathroom/Locker/Vehicle: (Student must have a pass from the teacher with them.)
To another teacher: (Student must have a pass from the teacher, or verbal approval between the two teachers.)
Guidance appointment: (Student must have a pass from Guidance, or verbal approval between the teacher and guidance.)
Nurse: Teachers will make contact with the nurse prior to sending a student.
Administration: Teachers will make contact with a secretary or administrator prior to sending a student.
Library: Teacher will make contact with the library prior to sending a student.

Post-Secondary Education
Students intending to pursue a post-secondary education (college or vocational training) should plan their academic program accordingly. Most colleges and technical schools require students to successfully complete a minimum of Algebra II, (advanced math for many programs), two (preferably three) years of lab sciences including Biology, Physics or Chemistry, and two years of a second language (French, Spanish, Latin).

Posting & Distributing Materials
Prior to posting or distributing handouts, flyers, or notices of any kind, students must receive administrative approval. This includes all individual students, all clubs, student organizations, and athletic teams. Students who do not follow this procedure will receive appropriate disciplinary consequences from administration. The materials will be confiscated and parents will be notified.

Post-Graduates
Upon graduation, students who wish to take high school courses as a postgraduate must request permission in writing. The letter must state the course(s) the student wishes to take and the reason for the request. These students, if approved, will be allowed to register on a space available basis.

Promotional Requirements
In order for graduation status to be awarded, twenty-two (22) credits and sixty (60) hours of Community Service are required. Promotion status:
Ninth grade to tenth grade: 5.5 credits
Tenth grade to eleventh grade: 11 credits
Eleventh grade to twelfth grade: 16.5 credits

Resource Officer
The City of Gardiner and M.S.A.D. #11 are working together in a safe schools partnership. As a result of this, we have placed a full time resource officer in the schools. The role of the Resource Officer is to assist administration and staff with disciplinary issues, to assist the school in drug free programs, and to assist the district in developing safe schools programs. Other important facets of the School Resource Officer are to assist staff in the classroom (when appropriate) and develop a rapport with students in the M.S.A.D. #11 school district.

Snowmobiles
Snowmobiles may be used to transport students to and from school. However, students who ride snowmobiles must follow the same rules and regulations of those students driving cars. Snowmobiles are not to be driven during the school day and are not to exceed ten (10) miles per hour. Students are to park their snowmobiles either across the street, in the area in front of “C” wing, or under the walkway leading to the gymnasium. Students who violate snowmobile policies will not be allowed to drive them on school property for a period of time determined by administration.

SAT (Student Assistance Team)
SAT (Student Assistance Team) meetings are held for students who are experiencing difficulties in several classes. Teachers, parents/guardians, students, and/or administrators may request a meeting through the student’s guidance counselor. Appropriate individuals will be invited to discuss the student’s social, academic, and behavioral status in order to ensure the student’s educational experience is optimized.

Student Employment
The Bureau of Labor Standards provides the following information. When school is in session:
Students ages 16 and 17:
• May not work more than 20 hours per week
• May not work more than 4 hours per day
• May not work more than 6 consecutive days
• May not work between the hours of 10:00 pm and 7:00 am on days preceding a school day
• May not work between 12:00 pm (midnight) and 7:00 am on other days.
Students under age 16:
• May not work more than 18 hours per school week
• May not work more than 40 hours any other week
• May not work after 7:00 pm during the school year
• May not work after 9:00 pm during the summer vacation

Student Council
The Student Council is the representative assembly and voice of the student body. It is their function to coordinate various special events throughout the school year and generate ideas of how to improve Gardiner Area High School.

Study Hall Expectations
Students who are assigned to a study hall must attend the study hall as they would a regular course. Study halls are an opportunity to work on assignments, gather information by visiting the library (pass required), a computer lab (pass required), or obtain assistance from another teacher (pass required) or student. When a student is in a study hall, he/she is expected to perform schoolwork and act appropriately. Playing games, cards, movies, or loud talking are not allowed. Teachers may look up students’ schedules to see if the student has any coursework either due or overdue for the student to work on when a student is not actively working on schoolwork.

Student Records
M.S.A.D. #11 has established a policy regarding student records, which is in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. A complete copy of this policy is available for your inspection in the office of the school principal or in the office of the superintendent of schools. It is important that you know this policy assures students and their parents of confidentiality. Only the people involved in your child’s education have the right to see your child’s school record. Listed below, in a simplified form, are those parts of the policy that schools are required by law to tell you each year:
1. Certain facts about students are classified as “directory information.” This includes such information as name, address, phone number, age, major field of study, or athletic participation. Directory information may be released to the public unless the parent sends a note to the principal refusing to allow information to be released. For example, the high school might release the names of players on an outstanding sports team, or a list of students who have achieved “honor” grades. The school department will not release directory information for any commercial purpose.
2. When a student moves to a new district, M.S.A.D. #11 will send all of the student’s records to the new school.
3. If you, the parent/guardian, wish to inspect your child’s records, you should contact your school’s office and sign a request form. An appointment will be made for you to view the records when an administrator or counselor is available to help interpret the record for you.
4. If you feel that your child’s right to privacy has not been protected, or if you have other concerns about the school’s record keeping procedures, please contact your child’s school principal for assistance. If this does not produce satisfactory results, you have the right to file a complaint concerning alleged violations of P.L. 93-380 with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Office, Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, 300 Independence Avenue, S.W. Washington, D.C. 20201

Telephone Use By Students
There are two (2) pay phones in the lobby of the building for student use. Students may use the phone before school starts, after school, or during lunch. Students need to be courteous and timely on the pay phone, realizing that other students may need to use the phone as well. Please limit your calls to a couple of minutes. Due to the few number of incoming lines to the school, office phones may be used only in cases of emergencies or attendance issues.

Textbooks, Library Books, And School Materials
All school materials issued to students are the property of M.S.A.D. #11 and Gardiner Area High School. Once issued it is the responsibility of the student to take care of such materials. If these materials are lost or damaged, the replacement cost will be assessed to the student and parent(s)/guardian(s). Seniors, who have an outstanding debt, will not be allowed to participate in graduation related activities until their financial obligation is met. Underclassmen who do not settle their financial obligations will be billed for the cost of replacing the item(s) not returned. Failure to comply will result in the school seeking restitution through legal authorities.

Weapons, Violence And School Safety (File: JICIA)
The Board believes that students and staff are entitled to learn and work in a school environment free of violence, threats and disruptive behavior. Students are expected to conduct themselves with respect for others and in accordance with Board policies, school rules, reasonable unwritten behavior expectations, and applicable state and federal laws.
School staff is required to immediately report incidents of prohibited conduct by students to the building administrator/designee for investigation and appropriate action.
In an effort to provide a safe environment for students and employees, all persons with the exception of law enforcement personnel are prohibited from the following conduct at all times on school premises, in any school vehicle, at any school-sponsored activity, or at any time or place if the conduct has an adverse effect on the discipline or welfare of the schools:

A. Possession or use of articles commonly used or designed to inflict bodily harm and/or intimidate other persons. Examples of such articles include, but are not limited to: firearms, pellet guns, ammunition, explosives, knuckles, switchblades, butterfly knives, chains, clubs, stars, and Kung Fu "stars."

B. Use of any object, although not necessarily designed to be a weapon, to inflict or to threaten bodily harm and/or to intimidate, coerce or harass. Examples of such objects include, but are not limited to: belts, other articles of clothing, combs, pencils, files, compasses, scissors, and replicas of weapons (including some toys).

C. Violent or threatening behavior, including but not limited to fighting, assault and/or battery, taking hostages, threats to commit violence against persons or property (e.g. verbal or written death threats, threats of bodily harm, bomb threats);

D. Using the mail or other manner of delivery as a vehicle to directly or indirectly communicate threats either through what is written or what is contained in the envelope or package, including powders or other substances that could be construed as dangerous or potentially life-threatening;

E. Verbal or written statements (including those made on or through a computer) which threaten, intimidate, or harass others, which tend to incite violence and/or disrupt the school program;

Any activities associated with gangs or secret societies, including but not limited to using slogans, gestures, handshakes or symbols that indicate membership or affiliation with a gang; promoting gang activity or affiliation (e.g. soliciting others for membership, requesting any person to pay for protection by a gang or otherwise intimidating or threatening other persons); engaging in gang fights or assaults; defacing property with gang symbols and/or graffiti; and wearing or displaying gang-related clothing and/or insignia:

A “gang” is defined as an association or group of individuals, whether formal or informal, which identifies itself through the use of a name, unique appearance or language, identifying sign or symbol, the claiming of geographical territory or the espousing of a distinctive belief system that can lead to criminal or violent activity, and whose members individually or collectively engage in or have engaged in a pattern of criminal or violent activity.
A. Willful and malicious damage to school or personal property;
B. Stealing or attempting to steal school or personal property;
C. Lewd, indecent or obscene acts or expressions of any kind;
D. Violations of the school unit’s drug/alcohol and tobacco policies;
E. Violations of state or federal laws, or any other Board policies, including the hazing and dress code policies;
F. Any other conduct that may be harmful to persons or property.

Disciplinary Action
Principals may suspend and/or recommend expulsion of students who violate this policy based upon the facts of each case and in accordance with applicable state and federal laws. Conduct which violates this policy is deliberately disobedient and deliberately disorderly within the meaning of 20-A MRSA– 1001(9) and will be grounds for expulsion if found necessary for the peace and usefulness of the school. Such conduct may also be grounds for expulsion under other provisions of 20-A MRSA – 1001(9 and 9-A) that specifically prohibit the use and possession of weapons, infractions of violence, and possession, furnishing and trafficking of scheduled drugs.

Students who are found to have brought a firearm to school (as defined by federal law) shall be expelled for a period of not less than one year, unless this requirement is modified by the Superintendent on a case-by-base basis.
All firearms violations shall be referred to law enforcement authorities as required by law. Other violations of this policy shall be referred to law enforcement authorities at the discretion of the Superintendent. Students with disabilities shall be disciplined in accordance with applicable federal and state laws/regulations and Board Policy JKF.

Administrative Implementation Procedures
A. Administrators will confiscate any article described in this policy and, if appropriate, submit it to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
B. Principals may authorize inspections of student vehicles, clothing, purses bags, backpacks and other personal belongings when there are reasonable grounds to suspect that the inspection will produce evidence this policy has been violated.
The Board authorizes the Superintendent to request an immediate psychological evaluation of a student who violates this policy when, in his/her opinion, such an evaluation will assist in assessing the risk the student poses to school safety if the student were to remain in school.
The Superintendent is authorized to request psychological evaluation of students who have been identified as posing a substantial risk of violent behavior.
If the parents/guardians and/or student refuse to permit a requested psychological evaluation, the Superintendent and the Board may draw any reasonable inferences from the student’s behavior concerning the risk the student poses to school safety for purposes of determining appropriate action.
C. A decision to change the placement of a student with a disability shall be made in accordance with the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

Student Expulsion
A. Students who violate this policy may be expelled under Title 20-A M.R.S.A. 1001(9), which provides in pertinent part that if found necessary for the peace and usefulness of the school, a school board shall expel any student:
1. Who is deliberately disobedient or deliberately disorderly;
2. For infractions of violence;
3. Who possesses on school property a firearm, as defined in Title 17-A M.R.S.A. * 2(12-A) or a dangerous weapon as defined in Title 17-A M.R.S.A. * 2(9) without permission of a school official;
4. Who, with use of any other dangerous weapon as defined in Title 17-A M.R.S.A. 2(9)(A), intentionally or knowingly causes injury or accompanies use of a weapon with the threat to cause injury.
B. Additionally, as required by 20-A M.R.S.A. 1001(9-A) and the federal Gun-Free School Zones Act of 1994, students who are found to have brought a firearm, as defined in 18 U.S.C.A. 921 et seq., to school shall be expelled by the school board for a period of not less than one year and referred to the appropriate local law enforcement agency. As further authorized by those statutes, the superintendent may exercise his/her decision to modify this expulsion requirement on a case-by- case basis.

Role Of The School Staff
School personnel will take such action as may in their judgment be appropriate to secure the health and safety of students during any altercation involving violence and/or use of a weapon. Incidents are to be reported immediately to an administrator.

Alternative Conflict Resolution
To reduce potential violence in the schools, the superintendent will be responsible for developing procedures for implementing programs of information, prevention and intervention in violent circumstances. This may be accomplished through peer mediation, counseling, parent involvement, services of community agencies or other activities suitable to the school unit.

Withdrawal Procedure
1. The counselor should fill out the withdrawal form.
2. The student obtains signatures from the librarian, classroom teachers, and an assistant principal/designee.
3. Parent contact is made either by phone or in writing.
4. The student returns the form to the guidance counselor.

NOTE: If a student is under seventeen (17) years of age, there must be a parental signature on the form.

Administration will inform the guidance staff when attendance becomes an issue. It is the guidance counselor’s responsibility to contact the home in order to attempt to get the student to return to school. If unable to make contact by phone, the counselor should mail a letter stating that student shall be withdrawn.

Work Release
A student qualifies for work release if:
1. Employed and requests to leave school early.
2. Obtains a work release form from their guidance counselor and returns it with the appropriate signatures.
3. Completes the add/drop process.
4. Must be passing all subjects each quarter.
Students who violate the procedures of the work release program will lose his/her privilege. Students will be assigned to a class/study hall and proper disciplinary action will be administered. Returning to school without permission, after being released, will result in a loss of the privilege.

SCHOOL SONG
“Gardiner High School”
(Tune: “On Wisconsin”)
Gardiner High School, Gardiner High School
May we ever stand
Honest, faithful, and courageous
Loyal to our Land;
Gardiner High School, Gardiner High School
We shall all be true
To the ideals you teach us
Through and through
Gardiner High School, Gardiner High School
We will do our best
To make with your wondrous spirit
Stand above the rest;
Gardiner High School, Gardiner High School
We shall always hold
Memories of our days here
More bright than gold
Gardiner High School, Gardiner High School
Thoughts will come to thee
Whether we are near or far
Upon the land or sea;
Gardiner High School, Gardiner High School
May we always find
Praise, glory, honor earned.

Download the student handbook in .pdf format below.

Developmental Guidance

“A comprehensive and developmental counseling and guidance program is a team effort involving school personnel, students, parents, and the community. This program promotes personal, social and emotional growth, educational and career development. Group, individual, consultation, and referral services are available within the educational environment. The school and community work together to facilitate opportunities and choices for students so that they may become productive, responsible citizens who are lifelong learners.”

Grade 9 Guidance

What should be expected?

More Choices

• Which classes to take
• How to manage your time
• Which activities to take part in such as clubs and teams

More Independence

You’ll be challenged to think for yourself and make good decisions.
You’ll also have to start thinking about career choices, job training and college

More Responsibility

• Good attendance
• Getting to class on time
• Planning a study schedule
• Adjusting to new school rules

Teachers will let students know what is needed for their class on the first day of school.

Grades are important. They will have an impact on what colleges you get into and what jobs you get. Your first year grades are part of your grade point average (GPA). Colleges and employers will use your overall GPA to help determine what kind of student or worker you will be. It is important during your 9th grade year that you come to the Counseling Office and meet your counselor.

Get Organized

• Know when your work is due by keeping a homework assignment notebook (all students are given one on the first day of school).
• Write down dates for tests and quizzes as well as long range assignments.
• Schedule a regular homework time
• Set up a study area where you can do homework without being disturbed.
• Avoid distractions while you study. These include e-mail, instant messaging, my space, TV, loud music, and the telephone.
• Set short-term goals that you can reach
• Plan to do quality work and get it done on time
• Use color coded notebooks for each class. Write the name of the class on the cover. Make separate sections for homework, notes, quizzes, tests, and handouts.
• Keep your book bag and locker neat so you can find what you need without wasting time. Repack your bag at night to avoid rushing to find things in the morning.
• FIND OUT WHAT WORKS BEST FOR YOU AND STICK TO IT!! Not everyone studies the same way. You will be surprised at the difference good study habits can make!

Grade 9 Calendar:

SEPTEMBER

Check your schedule. Take another look at the program of studies handbook. Be certain that you are taking all of the courses based on your 4 year plan.
If you have a problem with your schedule, make an appointment with your guidance counselor. Appointments are available during study hall, before school, lunch time, and after school.
Become involved.

OCTOBER, NOVEMBER, DECEMBER

Continue to remain involved in academics and extra-curricular activity.
Resolve any mid-year course conflicts.

JANUARY

Review your 4 year plan.
You can make schedule changes as your career and post-secondary plans evolve.

FEBRUARY, MARCH, APRIL

Students will receive their course selection materials for next year.
Review your course selections with your present teachers.
Return course selection sheet to your teacher advisor. Courses fill fast so make sure to get your selection sheet in on time.
Make certain your courses match your 4 year plan.
Meet with your guidance counselor to discuss academic choices. Your course selection should match your career ideas.
Create a portfolio (either electronic or hardcopy) This should included copies of report cards, lists of honors and awards, school and community activities to include both paid and volunteer work along with descriptions